Mountain Lions (cougars, pumas or panthers) live in the western US, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America.

Prevention:

• Don't hike, bike, or jog ALONE in lion territory
• Don't plan outdoor activities during the hours from dusk to dawn
• Avoid walking near dense growth, rock outcroppings, or under ledges
• Avoid hiking when lions are most activeÑdawn, dusk, and at night.
• Make a lot of noise when hiking so you won't surprise a lion.
• Keep children close when hiking in mountain lion country; most mountain lion attacks are made against children.

• Don't act afraid of a lion, if you encounter one
• Never turn your back on a lion or run from it.
• Talk or yell loudly and slowly back away, maintaining eye contact with the mountain lion.
• Make loud, firm noises: You may even show your teeth and make snarling sounds
• Make yourself look big (Raise jacket over your head
• Use anything available as a weapon if the lion displays aggression, but *generally not if you must turn your back, crouch, kneel, or bend over to get one

Links:
Four Sightings July 1 - 10, 2012
Surviving a Mountain Lion Encounter
California cougar attacks